Search Intensifies for Missing Sex Offender in San Diego
Authorities Search for Convicted Child Sex Offender
San Diego is grappling with a troubling situation as law enforcement intensifies its search for Merle Wakefield, a 69-year-old convicted child sex offender who disappeared shortly after his GPS monitor alerted to tampering. The alert sounded at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Friday while Wakefield was working in Rancho Bernardo, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Disappearance
Wakefield was under the supervision of Liberty Healthcare, a state contractor, when the alert was triggered. Upon arrival at the worksite, supervisors found the GPS device removed and Wakefield missing. The contractor promptly informed local law enforcement, including the sheriff’s office and San Diego police.
Community Concerns and Official Statements
The sheriff’s office expressed its commitment to finding Wakefield, acknowledging the community’s concerns. “We have been working diligently to locate him,” the agency stated, urging anyone with information or sightings to come forward.
“It’s been more than 48 hours since Merle Wakefield took off his GPS monitor and walked away. He’s still out there,” said San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond on Facebook, labeling Wakefield as “a convicted child molester and violent rapist.”
Background on Wakefield
Wakefield was convicted in 1980 and 1991 for lewd acts with a child under 14 and for rape by force. He has been on conditional release since November 2024, a decision that has drawn significant scrutiny.
Criticism of the Release Process
Local officials had previously voiced concerns regarding Wakefield’s release. A judge had granted him transient status in October 2024, avoiding a designated housing arrangement. This decision was met with opposition from Poway Mayor Steve Vaus, who argued that allowing Wakefield to live without a fixed address would complicate monitoring efforts.
- Wakefield is described as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 230 pounds, with brown eyes.
- Concerns were raised about the potential for Wakefield to live on the streets or in hotels at taxpayer expense.
- California Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones has called for an audit of the sexually violent predator program, highlighting a high violation rate among participants.
Official Responses and Next Steps
The California Department of State Hospitals defended the conditional release process, stating that courts ultimately decide on the release of sexually violent predators. They emphasized that GPS monitoring and unannounced visits are part of the supervision strategy.
As the search continues, authorities have warned the public not to approach Wakefield but to contact law enforcement immediately if he is spotted. The community remains on high alert as officials work to resolve this alarming situation.
Source Reference: Police hunt sexually violent predator who vanished after GPS 'tamper mode' alert